The Ivorian government spent well over $1bn (£789m) on hosting the tournament, including the building of four new stadiums and renovation of two others.

Airports, roads, hospitals and hotels were either constructed or upgraded in the five host cities of Abidjan, Bouake, Korhogo, San Pedro and Yamoussoukro, which is the capital of a nation ranked as the world's 138th-richest out of 190.

The excitement in the country was epitomised by the number of replica orange shirts spotted on the streets of the country and attendances at games were strong after a slow start.

With improved transport links which could boost tourism in the future, President Alassane Ouattara joined in the post-match celebrations - perhaps reflecting on money well spent in staging the finals.

"With the image we showed, Africa must be proud," said Ivory Coast co-captain Serge Aurier after the final.

"We have progressed, whether it be the teams, the stadiums, the living environment."

Thousands of fans then flooded the streets of Abidjan for a trophy parade on Monday.

Read More